If you’re missing a tooth, you have a couple of ways to fill the empty space in your teeth. Dental bridges do just what the name implies — bridge the gap between the teeth. Let’s explore further.
What are Dental Bridges?
Bridges have been used since the early 1900s to replace missing teeth. To build a bridge, your dentist will crown the teeth on either side of the empty space. These are called the anchor or abutment teeth. For a bridge to work effectively, the abutment teeth must be in good condition. This is especially true if a bridge replaces more than one tooth. A pontic — or false tooth — connects the two crowned teeth. It is cemented into place so it stays in position when you eat, drink and speak. The pontic fills the empty space, providing you a tooth that feels natural.
Advantages of Bridges
Bridges offer many advantages. First, they last a long time. If you care for it well, a bridge will last around 15 years. Next, they are lightweight and feel completely natural, thus enhancing your ability to eat and speak comfortably. Last, a bridge requires only two to three visits and requires no sedation or invasive procedures.
Other advantages include:
- They are less expensive than implants.
- They help maintain the shape of your face.
- They prevent other teeth from shifting or moving.
- They correct your bite that a missing tooth will alter.
Why use a Bridge to Fill a Gap in your Smile?
Bridges are preferred over implants in some cases. For example, if your gum line is low or you have a very visible smile line, an implant might not look aesthetically pleasing. A bridge will look more natural.
Bridges also allow you to control the color of multiple teeth. If you have a missing tooth in the front of your mouth, the color of an implant may be off ever so slightly. If you opt for a bridge, the restoration ends up looking more natural.
Additionally, implants require your jaw bone to be intact and healthy. If you don’t have sufficient bone density, an implant will likely require extensive bone grafting.
Finally, implants occasionally fail. In these scenarios, bridges provide a viable alternative to restore a tooth.
At Anthony Martin Dentistry, located in Yorktown, VA, we offer dental bridges as an effective and affordable treatment option for patients missing a tooth or teeth. Ask us about our cosmetic dentistry services.